Can you tell me anything about the early 20th century movements that were signed "Longines Extra"? Thanks in advance. Tony C.
I have seen a couple of these. It is possible that the extra marking may have meant extra adjustments. Swiss watches imported into the US at this time which said on the movements "Adjusted to 5 positions" or anything which indicated that they completed with American RR grade watches were taxed at a high rate. Perhaps this was Longines' way of getting around this tax/tariff. Patek did this too but usually the Patek movements said both Extra and Adjusted to 5 or 6 positions. JohnCote
Longines used the "extra" label for various jewel counts and bridge layouts, including rather nice 21j versions. They also sometimes used a secondary designation of "superior", as referenced in the last photo. Blued jeweled Longines were mainly intended for the Asian market, if I am correct. At least that is where I see them most prevalently. Though I cannot say why. .
Thanks! Interesting, and especially the Asian market note. I have long been fascinated by the special preferences of the Asian market, and how they impacted various models that were exported from Switzerland.